Frontier Crucible (2025) Movie Script
1
Declare your intentions!
Well, sure, I could send out
a whole cavalry company
for this job.
It's an option.
You were about to ask me
that very question, weren't you?
That thought occurred
during your verbosity.
It's a good question.
Astute thinking on your part.
But here's my belief.
I believe that sending out
a full cavalry company
is the surest way to guarantee
that those supplies
will never reach San Carlos.
Beckford...
Merrick, if I may be
so familiar.
You and I
are old hands out here.
We know how things balance out.
There is not a company
at the fort
that can stand against
the Apache
in their own backyard.
Am I right?
If the Confederacy had
hired on some Apache troops,
I believe that war would
still be going on right now.
Yes, sir.
Most assuredly.
We don't understand the Apache,
and we don't want their company,
but we do respect them.
I'm not going to minimize
the terror those people
must be feeling
with this epidemic down South.
Sure, there are doctors
in San Carlos,
two, maybe three,
who know their hip
from their elbow.
But what those people want
and truly need right now
are drugs and medical supplies.
It's urgent.
Haven't slept too much
this past week,
trying to figure out
how to supply them.
Find a solution.
And then you had
the notion to ride out.
Correct.
Like a knight from heaven,
sent by God Himself.
I had a notion to ride out.
But then, suddenly,
the answer came to me.
Merrick Bedford
could take that wagon
down to San Carlos by himself.
You could do it.
Alone. Unaccompanied.
You'd cause less commotion
than some blundering company.
And you know how
to navigate the Apache.
The answer was so simple,
so divinely perfect,
that I almost laughed aloud.
The notion of riding alone
through Apache country
doesn't make me mirthful, Major.
Well, maybe not,
but it does
give a man confidence.
I've already ordered
the wagon loaded.
Those folks in San Carlos
desperately need those supplies.
And I need sleep
almost as badly.
I'll be on my way
inside of an hour.
Arm left. Forward.
Plagues and black boils!
Blast them tarnal savages
to Hell.
Thunderation, woman.
What in the name of God
are you transporting
in this wagon
that stinks thatta way?
Are the smells
of burning fineries
truly your biggest concern
at this time?
You got some sass in you.
I don't abide a woman
gettin' contrary.
Oh, Mule.
Allow the woman a moment
to gather herself.
We've all been through
an ordeal.
Well, since you asked me
so polite-like,
I'll allow it.
Ma'am,
may I offer you some assistance?
Have you any medical experience?
Not formally, no,
but I have sliced open a few men
in my lifetime.
A man out here chances
dying every day, ma'am.
It ain't good for a lady
like you to think about,
but that's the way it is.
But you don't have to worry
about that too much, ma'am.
Men without women
are real plentiful out here.
Ma'am, it might be better
if you just let Mr. Butler
bleed out his insides
right here.
What do you mean by that?
Your husband,
he weren't the bravest critter
I ever laid eyes on
when those Apaches attacked.
And that was back when we had
a wagon and horses.
Now, it might be better
if Mr. Butler weren't breathing
when those Apaches come back.
You didn't think they was
through with us, did you?
They'll be back.
And if they saw
inside that wagon,
glimpsed what a looker you are,
they'll be back quick.
With intentions.
You have no
compunctions whatsoever
about letting my husband die?
Ma'am, we gots to prepare
for our next engagement
with those Indians.
Pa, I see dust.
I see a wagon.
There's a red cross
painted upon the canvas.
It's a army wagon.
How many soldiers
are riding escort?
None.
Whoa, whoa.
How many on the wagon?
One man riding on the boot.
Looks like the time
I paid two nickels in church
about to pay off.
You mind your husband
while we converse
with this stranger.
But perhaps this wagon
will be able to--
Edmund.
I advise you to take care
of that pretty little husband
of yours in silence.
Looks like you all
had an encounter.
You folks making camp here?
Well, a man camps
where he has to.
Where's the rest of the army?
Three days, few hours
north of here at Fort Stalwart.
Though it might take you
a mite longer afoot.
Why are you riding alone
like this?
You dislike the company
of others?
Oh, I'm capable on my own.
Where you headed?
South.
San Carlos.
You folks come from that way?
Oh, yeah. We, uh...
we came from that direction.
Ambushed by Apache?
Yeah, and we'd sure appreciate
your assistance.
Them braves aren't far off,
and we hope to be off and away
before they return
for an encore.
Will you help us out?
We'd be beholden.
I've been sent on a mission
by the U.S. Army.
You better hold
right there, friend.
Something amiss?
A couple things
I'd like to say to you men.
Feel free to say
anything you like.
Well, first thing's about these
here animals the army gave me.
They'll pull far,
and they're steady,
but they ain't fast.
In fact, they couldn't outrun
a little old lady,
let alone compete
with Apache ponies.
The other thing is,
if three men were to draw on me,
all at once,
well, there wouldn't be
but two of you
left standing at most.
I'd kill the old one first,
then I'd see who else
I could drop.
I'm steady and experienced
in such...
situations.
Well, whatever gave you
such inhospitable thoughts
about us?
Well, I was just considering
what I might be tempted to do
if I was stranded
in Apache country
with a woman and a wounded man
and somebody happened
to come along
with a couple of fresh mules.
All right.
Ma'am?
Are these men your kin,
by any chance?
They are strangers to me.
You better keep your distance
if you want to keep this
whole thing friendly.
Edmund!
Come on, man.
I see you have a casualty.
Oh, yeah.
Now, he...
he's digesting some lead,
though he's better off
than our horses.
Hm.
Will you look
at my husband's injury?
You'll pardon me
while I assist these others.
Yes?
Of course, man.
Of course.
Go right ahead and help them.
Yeah, that's a nasty one.
Deep too.
Have you any experience
doctoring such injuries?
Enough to know his chances
might improve
if I cut that bullet out.
To hell with that.
We gotta get out
of this tarnal valley
before them tarnal savages
come back and take
our tarnal scalps.
If we all moved to a safer spot,
we'd be better off, ma'am.
Then let's quit all
this jawing and ride.
Well, moving
right now might kill this man.
Well, we all gonna
be dead 'fore too long.
We need to go.
That ain't your decision
to make.
Now, she can get
another husband.
Ain't one of us
can grow a new scalp.
Move an inch closer to that gun,
I'm gonna be cutting lead
out of you too.
Edmund.
Don't increase the number
of casualties
we're dealing with here.
Mrs. Butler.
Ma'am.
'Tain't reasonable to stay
out here in the open
and to wait to get killed.
Now, once we find some shelter,
we'll get that bullet
out your husband.
I swear that to you
as a Christian.
If he survives the travel.
We're gonna ride careful,
and make sure that he does, hm?
Water.
He wants water.
Got any water?
I'm out.
Watering hole up ahead
was a stop I planned to make.
Hey, I have a canteen
with some left.
Well, get it in.
Bring it in, boy.
Is it far
to this waterhole you know?
It ain't far.
It's called Patchee Wells.
It's the only water source
I know of in the region
that stays wet
during dry spells.
I'm sure glad you know
this country so good.
Will we be any safer
in your wagon
than we were in ours?
The important thing right now
is getting out
of the open, ma'am.
So if you're not
opposed to going...
we should be off.
Then let us hurry.
All right.
All right.
Let's get him into the wagon.
Raise him gently.
We don't want him
bleeding worse.
Edmund.
Go gather up our things.
I would like to ride
alongside my husband.
That's a good idea, ma'am.
Billy, ride up front.
Edmund, ride in back
with these saddlebags.
We sure appreciate
all this assistance
you're giving us.
I don't believe
I caught your name.
Beckford.
You heard of me?
No, sir, not that I recall.
Uh, there ain't room
for a third on that bench,
so I'll ride with my associate,
back of the wagon.
Give me a hand, eh?
All right, mister,
let's launch this wagon
like a cannonball.
Watering hole's that way.
Our route's north.
The water and this wagon
are going south.
Step up.
Blisters! Can't these
critters move any faster?
Like I said,
they ain't built for speed.
A slug
could beat this pace
in the middle of winter.
There's another name
goes in front of Beckford?
Merrick.
Merrick Beckford,
my name's Billy McKee.
That old goat in the rear,
that's my pa.
"Mule" Charley McKee.
We truly appreciate your help.
That other one,
Edmund.
He been riding with you
for a while?
Yeah.
Ever since I was a little kid.
But you don't have
to worry about him,
he'll mind Pa.
Oh, I'm not worried about him.
You been in Tucson lately?
A few weeks ago.
Man, I miss that place.
Is there anything new
up that way?
There was a bank robbery
a few weeks ago.
I don't mean like that.
I mean, is there
any saloons or parlors?
Any brothel girls, yeah?
There's a lady in this wagon.
You keep those keen eyes
looking for Apaches, boy.
Step up.
Easy, easy.
Whoa, whoa, whoa.
This place look familiar to you?
No, not at all.
Whew.
Handsome fella.
Explains how he got himself
this Mrs. Butler.
Has his condition worsened?
Not noticeably.
There's some antiseptic
in the wagon,
gauzes and bandages.
Why don't you go fetch those?
I'll retrieve them.
You and your son
should loose these mules,
water them, and stake them
in that grass patch over there.
Now, if we stake them there,
they'll have to climb uphill
to get out this place.
Not good for leavin' in a hurry.
Yeah, well, if Apaches visit us,
we won't have time
to hitch up that wagon.
We definitely can't put
those mules on that ridge.
Oh, okay.
Billy, tend these animals.
Edmund, build a fire.
Well, if you would like a fire,
I recommend
you build one yourself.
The McKees might take orders
from you,
but that doesn't mean I will.
I warned you, man.
Now, you build that fire
like the man says,
or I'll give you another
toweling like I did in Laredo.
Oh, that incident
was a long time ago, old-timer.
You don't walk quite as tall
-as you did in those days.
-Thunderation, man.
Don't push it.
I will build your fire
as requested, friend.
Are you going to sterilize
that blade before operating?
That's why we're risking
the fire right now.
How have you stayed alive
this long?
Being a little quicker
and a little smarter than most.
Lighting a fire out in the open
ain't evidence
of that intelligence.
The Indians know
we've come to this place.
Well, there's a chance
they don't.
Your mules left tracks.
Yeah.
They'll find those marks
for certain,
but only after
they revisit the valley.
So in the meantime,
there's no sense telling them,
or any other band
in this vicinity,
that we are here.
You know, not many white men
know Patchee Wells even exists.
You ever been here before?
No.
Go build that fire over there,
and keep it small.
Did he bite you?
No. Just trying to run away.
Should I get McKee
to brace your husband?
I'm not squeamish.
He's gonna buck like a bronco.
I can hold him fast. Please.
Hold him tight.
Hold him. Hold him.
Hold him tight.
Hold him tight.
It's out.
Please.
Proceed.
Should I bandage his injury
at this time?
Yeah. Yeah, go ahead.
Um...
Is there anything else
to do for him?
All we can do now is wait.
I'm sorry that a person
like you is...
stuck in a situation like this.
Well, it's fortunate
that my husband and I
happened upon a decent
human being out here.
I'll return the medical supplies
to the wagon.
Billy, put that fire out.
Okay.
I'll do it, mister.
A keepsake
from your misadventures.
Beckford.
Let's chew some words,
if you don't mind.
That was a mighty fine
little bit
of doctoring you did there.
I bet that weren't
the first bullet
you ever dug out a man.
It was not.
Yeah, I figured.
So, now that bullet's out,
I think it's time for us
to scuttle north
to Fort Stalwart.
I'm not going north.
Just where do you plan to go?
South. Mission at San Carlos.
There's a fever epidemic there,
and the people in that town
need the medicine in my wagon.
So if you boys want
to come with me,
well, you're more than welcome.
You speak with a lot
of confidence, man.
Hell of a lot.
Especially for a lone fella,
facing down three.
Wagon and those mules are mine,
and my itinerary is set.
You know, talking like--
What's the matter, boy?
Apaches, Pa.
I smell 'em.
Plagues and black boils.
Your boy
right about these things?
Ten times out of ten.
Stay right there.
Don't even breathe.
All right, mister.
You know how to handle Indians?
Let's go handle them.
He looks like a scout.
I'm gonna come
from out this boulder
so they can see me.
I know some braves
and can speak a few words.
While he's distracted,
wound him or disarm him,
but no matter what,
do not kill him.
You understand me?
Friend.
Ash!
Chalipun?
Merrick Beckford?
Stop!
Red blazes, kid!
You weren't supposed
to murder him.
Billy! Billy!
I killed him, Pa.
What you did,
you stupid reptile,
is just purchase for us
the merciless black wrath
- of the Apache.
- Blisters, man,
I ain't letting him report
our position to his tribe.
That'd be
a fool thing to do.
I knew this man.
Could have arranged
safe passage for us all.
The pony!
Grab it.
Hey, hey!
We gotta get
out of here.
You now just see
what you done?
The red hell you
just bought for us?
You're the one
that pulled him out in the open.
He had his hands
raised friendly.
We were talking. You saw that.
But it ain't buying us anything
to worry about that now.
When the Apaches find that pony,
they'll be upon us.
Oh, I'm sorry.
I didn't mean
to interrupt your sermon.
Well, surely you could see
we need to ride hot hell
out of here right now.
You just saw firsthand
how slow our mules are
compared to that one.
That's why we need to go. Now.
Get ourselves a big lead
before that pony
- gets back--
- No.
Moving right now
will kill Mr. Butler.
Put us in the thirsty wide open,
exposed to sun
and vengeful Apache.
There's some army spades
in the back of that wagon.
Go on and get them.
If we can bury this mistake,
we might have half a chance
of fooling those Indians.
Where the hell is Edmund?
I didn't see him.
Man should be helping us dig.
That man is acting more wayward
than I'm gonna brook.
All right. All right.
We gonna keep his rifle?
We're trying to hide this mess,
not acquire keepsakes
to show everyone what we did.
Okay. I just--
there just ain't been
many times in my life
I said, "Damn, I wish
I didn't have this gun."
Boy, I'll swat you
like I did your mestizo mother.
Go ahead.
You sass me again.
Put the damn rifle in there.
Them Apaches won't
much appreciate us
burying their brave
like a white man.
It's against their beliefs.
Yeah, you're right about that,
but I'm hoping
we're far and away
before they discover him.
Where the hell
did you disappear to?
You should have assisted us
with that dig.
Cleaning up after your boy
isn't my responsibility.
Well, shall we be off?
We need to wait until Mr. Butler
is well enough to travel.
No, we spent enough time
in Patchee Wells.
If you choose to remain,
you do so on your own.
Don't threaten me.
I welcome any rebuttal you care
to offer, friend.
All right, no use you two
killing each other
till we know how things
are gonna go with the Apache.
We will commandeer
that army vehicle
if you don't oblige us.
I've got no desire to stay
in this infernal place
one minute longer
than I have to.
But we need
to let Mr. Butler heal some,
or we will kill him.
Huh.
You breathe too loud, friend.
You telegraph it.
You give yourself away
even to a man
you'd shoot in the back.
Get worms, you little bastard.
I ain't no bastard.
A Mexican priest
said the words--
Shut the hell up!
All right.
Put away your gun, man.
Edmund's just trying to throw
a scare into you, is all.
He'd never shoot a man
in the back.
This whole situation's
tying knots in our guts, see?
It's got us all
a little bit anxious.
Edmund won't kill nobody,
unless he gets the order
from me,
and I ain't going to allow him
to flash shots at a man
who's helped us out.
You heard that?
Yeah.
If Edmund draws on me again,
there'll be repercussions.
Whoa, whoa, whoa.
Abner! It's me, your brother.
I came alone.
You can show yourself.
"Dear Abner,
I'm writing you this letter
because I've got good news
if you'll pocket
that stubborn
Virginia pride of yours
and admit the war
between the Confederacy
and the Union is over,
buried for years.
At present, the United States
has a list of crimes
charged against you longer
than two neckties,
starting with your escape
from that Yankee prison in Ohio
and including the robberies
you did all along the border.
With all
these offenses tallied,
you seem like a very
formidable enemy to them."
"I've used all my sway
trying to square things
so you can go back home
to Virginia a free man."
Whoa.
"That's finally been arranged.
There's a full pardon
awaiting you.
I'll meet you in two weeks
at Patchee Wells
and escort you to Tucson,
where you can take an oath
of loyalty to the United States
and finally be forgiven.
This is your chance
to finally go back home,
free and honest.
Your dear brother, Merrick."
Ain't it obvious, boy?
Beckford has that old
Southern honor in his blood.
I sure hope
he can fend off
them Indians as good as we did.
I need more proof.
Odious, detestable jackal!
Release me!
Don't do it, son.
Ain't we got troubles enough
right now?
I don't need
any guidance from you.
Look at where
your leadership got us!
Billy, take his gun.
You shouldn't handle me
that way, old man.
I'm still young enough.
How'd your man get so unraveled?
Well, he got into some of that
medicinal alcohol in the wagon.
Didn't increase
his intelligent much.
That drink didn't give him
any ideas he didn't have
from the first moment he saw me.
You're right about that, ma'am,
but the true wonder
is that we only had
to intervene once.
You keep him organized.
I'll try.
If I have to
discipline him myself,
it'll be severe.
Come on, bud. Come on.
Okay. Wake up.
Get him, boy.
Take him back there.
There we go. Come on.
Mr. Beckford.
Can you come over here
for a moment
and make an appraisal?
His temperature has risen,
and he's burning up.
Yeah, this is it.
This is the bad time.
Either that fever will burn
the poison out of him or...
I understand.
This will help with his fever.
I want to thank you
for all that you've done.
Yeah, well, I hope it's enough.
We're in your debt.
Well, we ain't out of this yet.
No matter what happens,
you deserve our gratitude.
You stopped to help us
while you were on your way
to somewhere else.
You're troubled by this delay.
There's a fever epidemic
at San Carlos.
Medicine I'm transporting
in this wagon was for them.
Well, I'm sorry that our follies
will impact you
and so many others.
Yeah, well, they should have
got these drugs a week ago,
so a couple days' delay
won't matter too much.
Well, for some of them,
it might matter very, very much.
Do you have family
in San Carlos?
A wife?
No.
I don't know anybody down there.
Are you married?
I was.
It's hard to imagine a woman
letting go of a man like you.
Yeah, well, she died
before she knew me well enough
to break things off, so...
You have my condolences.
No honest man
should have to endure
so many trials and indignities.
Ma'am.
Any signs?
None.
We could put
a lot of miles
between us
and this place tonight.
Push them animals hard,
might make Fort Stalwart
in two days rather than three.
I told you when we'd travel.
I also told you where.
I didn't mean
to startle you.
Announce yourself
when you draw near.
I shall.
Would you come with me to Jeff?
I believe his fever's subsided.
He's steadier than before.
I'll get him some water
to drink.
Blisters!
How many cups have you had?
Four?
That there's
his fifth cup of coffee.
For some unknown reason,
our friend wants to keep himself
from falling asleep all night.
The wind sounds
so haunting out here,
so empty and alone.
I don't see why anyone
would ever choose to live
in this land.
Well, there are reasons
to dwell in these parts.
How about this spot?
You ever hide out here before?
Nope.
Never been here before.
Why are you asking?
My brother was killed here.
You have my condolences,
Mr. Beckford.
Well, I'm mighty saddened
to hear a thing like that.
Are you?
I said I was.
How did your brother pass?
He was murdered in the dark
by bushwhacking cowards.
It was a brutal killing.
Without sense.
Lot of killings make no sense.
They shot him four times
and mutilated his body
in ways I would not describe
in front of any woman.
Well, sounds like
he got attacked by Indians.
Wasn't Indians.
Well, that's real tragic.
A man would have to be heartless
to deny that.
I appreciate your sympathies.
Well, you've got mine, man.
You do.
Let me tell you something.
Mule Charley McKee
never had it easy, neither.
And I took to living by the gun.
Now I admit that to you people.
But I never done it from choice.
It all was forced on me
back when my Billy
was just a lad.
I had 'steaded me a ranch,
lived on it with my boy
and his mestizo old mother,
but, uh,
she was killed, and then...
the land office took the place.
I know all about your "honest"
homesteading days, old-timer.
You were pretty generous
with that running iron of yours.
We all did that back then.
-Uh-huh.
-He's rounding up.
You can't stop
to count out a man's strays.
I reckon I lost just
as many beeves as I gained.
I doubt that.
Well, a man got to look out
for hisself
and his own, right?
Do business the way he sees fit.
A man's gotta be able to stand
behind what he does at night
when the noontime sun
is shining down on him.
That's well said, man.
Well said.
You know, I've admired you
plenty since meeting you.
Mucho, like my wife
used to say.
You're the sort of hombre
that makes a fine friend...
and a muy malo enemy. Hm?
Now the boys and me
understand you're determined
to drive south to San Carlos,
and we figure, well,
maybe there's some money
in it for you.
And never once in my entire life
did I meet a man
who wouldn't change his plans
if the price was right.
To show you
I'm a Christian trustworthy,
I wanna tell you right out.
Them saddlebags we got,
they're bursting full
of spending money.
Yours?
It is now.
And so that's what me
and the boys been talking over.
We're willing to offer you...
a thousand dollars
federal money
to point that team
north right now
and gallop to Fort Stalwart.
Oh, that's a mighty generous
offer you're making.
It's simple, friend.
Go north. Get rich.
Stay alive.
Shh. Hush, Edmund.
Now, all of us
got to stay reasonable
about this thing.
All right?
Now, the boys and me,
we just come up from the south,
and between here and to
San Carlos, there ain't nothing
but godforsaken
country and the hostiles.
We seen it ourselves,
ain't we, son?
Yep.
It's just like Pa says.
See, you'd never survive
going down that way,
and ain't nobody hold it
against you if you turn back.
If we head north,
chances are much better.
Might even meet a army patrol
'fore too long,
if we lathered them animals.
Yeah, racing those mules
wouldn't get you very far.
Though it would kill them...
and Mr. Butler.
I'm sorry, McKee.
But I have obligations
that a thousand dollars
could never wash away.
Mrs. Butler.
You're welcome to
remain here with us.
I fear the smells in this area
might affect my constitution.
Beckford.
McKee?
I want no trouble with you.
Well, that's fine.
But I'll tell it to you direct.
We'll take them animals
from you by force
if that's the only option
you give us.
Think it over.
Well, I'll be waiting
on this side of the pool
washing that wagon,
ready and armed
whenever you want, McKee.
After you, ma'am.
You boys sleep well.
Beckford.
Were you asleep?
I drifted for a moment.
I won't let that happen again.
I came to tell you
that Jeff is awake.
I want to thank you.
Jefferson Calhoun
Butler, third.
Merrick Beckford.
You would have done
the same for me.
Oh, I don't know that I could
have done what you did.
It is a certainty that you
saved my life, Mr. Beckford.
I am grateful
for your ministrations.
I suppose that I don't have
to point this out to you, but...
well, my wife and I weren't...
were not made
for frontier living.
You know, I was on the...
the general's staff...
in the war.
We dodged cannonballs
and gunshots, bayonets,
just as any other infantryman.
I never ran from the enemy,
not once.
After the war,
I came back home, and I figured,
you know, I'm just as good
as the next man
and better than many.
But I don't feel that way
out here.
Well, the frontier
is a challenging place.
Oh, well, you're kind
to say that.
Look, it hurts my pride
to say this aloud.
I'm afraid that
we still need your help.
Right now, I... I know
that you're gonna do
what's best for all of us,
aren't you?
Mr. Beckford?
I'll do what I have to do.
Hey.
All I ask is that you consider
the welfare of this...
fine young lady
just as well as your odds
against those Yankee brigands
when you make your decision.
No matter the situation,
a man's got to be able to live
with the choices he makes.
Sorry, amigo--
I've staked this claim.
Homestead somewhere else.
Can't fall asleep.
I ain't falling for that.
Edmund! Watch out!
Blisters.
Beckford!
Keep your skirts
behind that wagon, Miss Butler.
Billy boy!
Edmund, what's happening
over there?
You hold it right there, McKee.
Go on and fling that gun
a distance from you.
Billy? You answer me now.
I said fling that gun.
Boy?
I said hold it
right there, McKee.
I got to get my boy.
He's past helping.
It can't be.
It is.
Not Billy.
I'm looking at you, Beckford.
And I'm looking at you with ire
and a burning, boiling wrath.
And I swear...
I swear a fiery black oath
to God right now,
that if I get the chance,
I'm gonna end your life.
And if I get the chance,
I'll do it with my bare hands.
Hm?
You drag Edmund to the overhang.
Do what you want with him there,
if anything.
I cracked his skull pretty hard.
And drag your boy over there
so you can bury him.
You don't want the buzzards
catching his scent.
Is it time to leave?
If your husband feels
well enough to travel,
we should be off.
You're...
you're still heading south?
Yes, ma'am, I am.
Jeff insists that we can't go
in that direction.
He is adamant on the matter.
I'm going south.
If you all want to come with me,
that's entirely up to you.
You're gonna leave me
and my injured husband
in the Apache country?
Oh, I'd hate to do so.
That is, again, your choice.
You know what they're gonna do
to us if they find us here
with a murdered Apache.
You aren't as noble
as I earlier imagined
if you'd allow
such a thing to happen.
Look, I have a heap of miles
between here and San Carlos,
and I have enough to do
than battle my own passengers.
Well, then,
perhaps this conflict
should be settled beforehand.
My husband and I decided
to challenge your autocracy.
Put that thing down.
If you're to shoot me,
you better point that
at my heart, not my shoulder
like you're doing.
Because you ain't
takin' these mules
unless you kill me.
I'd rather tie you up
than hurt you,
so don't do
anything underhanded.
You're the one
being underhanded.
Coming at me with a sweet,
friendly tone
and pulling a gun on me.
Go on.
Shoot me.
Right here.
Then ride north
through Apache country.
We can try it.
Sure you can.
Did it once before, didn't you?
Only you had
one more man back then.
Edmund over there
has a cracked skull,
so he won't do much,
being dizzy--
Be quiet.
Of course, you folks will panic
and lather up
these mules full out,
which will kill them,
make your husband bleed--
Shut up!
Ah!
You hold it right there.
Slither back to your cave.
Now, if nobody else
intends to attack me,
I think I'll have
some breakfast.
Mrs. Butler!
You care to join me?
Look, I don't want you
to feel too badly now.
I know you were put up
to doing what you did.
Ma'am, I've got
more than I can eat.
Please. Come join me.
Thank you.
Billy's dead.
Just cut down in the night.
There's a patch of
soil on the incline over here,
where I buried my brother.
Probably a good place for you
to put Billy.
I left the shovels over there.
If you intend
to ride south with me,
I'd start digging.
You'll have us
in your wagon as passengers?
Unarmed.
Bound up firm with rope,
you two won't be
too much trouble.
I'll be leaving soon.
Edmund.
It's nearly time to go.
Mr. Beckford.
Can I speak with you
for a moment, please?
I am feeling...
...much better
now after that meal,
much more my... myself.
Thank you.
So you and Mrs. Butler
are gonna join me then, huh?
Oh, I'd much rather chance
bleeding to death
in a moving wagon
than remain in this
watering hole,
weaponless, without horses,
awaiting Apaches.
So you have no issue
against going south?
Is that right?
I have everything against
riding in that direction,
but the wagon is yours, and...
you've claimed my two-shot.
I suppose that does
change things, doesn't it?
Yeah, but I'm never gonna
survive a journey
in that direction
with so many hostiles.
And you were a soldier once,
weren't you?
I mean,
sometimes the smartest course
is to retreat.
I wasn't on the general's staff.
Look, I've got things to do
before we clear out,
and those two are nearly
done digging, so...
Hold on.
Wait, wait, wait.
I've got one final offer
to make.
Don't you waste
one more syllable
on the subject of going north.
I--I've seen the way
that you look at Valerie.
What are you talking about?
I've been sick,
my good host, not blind.
I haven't done anything.
Do you deny that you want her?
Look, I don't see
the sense of talking
about this kind of thing.
She's your wife.
I know my wife,
and I can tell without asking
that she sees in you the kind
of man she thought that I was
when she married me.
I have work to do.
I brought my wife out here
with a bouquet of hopes
and dreams and promises
that have all just
withered in the sun.
All right, as a husband,
I'm a failure.
Well, there ain't nothing
I can do about that.
Yes, there is.
I'm not following you.
If we survive this ordeal
and Valerie goes back east
with me,
it's only gonna be
out of a sense of loyalty
and obligation.
Okay, it is obvious
that her feelings of affection
have already found a new,
far more worthy subject.
You should really
sleep this off.
Listen to me, please.
Take us to Tucson, okay?
And I swear, hand to God,
I will step out
of this marriage.
Valerie will be free.
Does she know you're offering
to leave her like this?
No, she doesn't know.
But I have a feeling she won't
have any problem stepping aside
after all that's gone on.
That was...
that was not an easy thing
to say, so...
please, sir, I'll have
your decision at this time.
A yellow serpent
who'd offer what you just did
doesn't deserve a woman
like that...
but none of that
changes the fact
that this medicine
needs to reach San Carlos.
Mr. Beckford...
I just wanted to let you know
that we're ready.
Good. It's past time
we hit the trail.
Me and Ed
can take care of the rest.
All right?
You sure you're up to travel?
Yes.
Sorry to break up the conclave.
We'll go gather
the last of our possessions
from the overhang.
Be quick.
We will.
Please forgive me
for my behavior moments ago.
I, uh...
There ain't nothing to forgive.
I was startled
when I saw those scars.
You're wasting time.
Get your husband in the wagon.
There's something
I must tell you.
They intend to take
the wagon from you.
I know. And you should be glad,
McKee and Edmund
are going your way.
They discussed their plan
with us.
Well, I didn't think you folks
were exchanging recipes.
Jeff told them that
he's willing to endure the mules
being run full out
all the way to Fort Stalwart.
Well, I guess he'd agree
to anything at this point.
They want me to take that gun
from your holster
as we board the wagon.
Why're you telling me this?
I know what type of men
McKee and Edmund are,
and I can't abide
putting you at their mercy.
I'll pretend...
as if I still intend
to disarm you,
and when the time comes,
stop my efforts
with a convincing
display of force.
I'll make sure not to harm you.
I've seen how gentle you can be.
Thank you.
What is it?
Drums.
Go to your husband. Now.
Red blazes.
Where the hell is he?
These guns are unloaded,
but I will still shoot anyone
who tries for them.
You hear that sound, man?
That's Indian drums
pounding out there, now.
It's time for all of us
to throw in together.
They found and dug up
that brave we buried.
Thunderation.
Sounds like they're
consigning him to their gods.
-Come on.
-We got to go quick
while they're distracted
with their ritual.
Yeah, I doubt they'll
let us ride free,
but only one way
to find out. Are you ready?
I'm too scared to feel any pain
right now.
You two get him in the wagon.
Be gentle.
Over in there, bud.
Go on.
What do you think,
they're setting up a boutique?
Well, if we survive this day,
I plan on enjoying myself.
You get back there
with the Butlers
and your hard-earned money.
Edmund, wait.
- There's a matter to discuss.
- Be concise.
Now, we've thrown in with you,
and we'll abide your say-so,
and I swear that to you
as a Christian
directly into the radiant ears
of Christ Himself.
Now you give us back them guns,
so we have a chance
of surviving this engagement.
I admire you, McKee,
I really do.
Especially how you let
those absurd notions
exit your mouth.
You won't arm us?
Not now, maybe not ever.
But I tell you what.
If I see a host
of galloping braves
riding towards us
with dire intentions,
I will revisit the notion.
Now get in!
You rotten...
You reptiles stay
to the rear of the wagon.
If you approach me
or molest the Butlers,
you will learn firsthand
that Christ ain't ever
gonna call you up to Heaven.
What is there
to see at present?
Nothing.
But it's a meaningful nothing.
When're you gonna
let out them mules?
As soon--
Whoa, whoa, whoa!
What the hell are you doing?
That shot meant stop,
and they will not ask twice.
Man, you run them animals now!
If we've any chance
of surviving,
it'll be from talking.
Plagues and black boils,
you are a fool!
Three Apaches are approaching.
Stay calm and quiet.
Are you
friends with any of these?
I've never seen them before.
Thunderation, man.
I told you yesterday afternoon
we ought to run.
Yesterday!
Run where? North?
Right to 'em?
Yesterday,
we had a chance.
Small, maybe tiny,
but at least we had
some kinda chance.
What the hell
have we got now, huh?
Same chance we had yesterday,
except this time
we're meeting them here
instead of the open.
Out.
He is hurt.
Wounded. We have to help him.
Stay.
Out.
He's hurt.
-Can't you see that?
-Val. Val. Val.
Just don't ask
for anything, okay?
Stand up.
Okay.
-Your wounds have reopened.
-Shh.
You know that one?
No.
But you don't have
to be acquainted with him
to know his lineage.
You are the leader
of this group?
I speak for them. Yes.
What does that cross mean?
It means that that wagon
is carrying medicine.
I took on these passengers
when I met them in the valley.
And then you killed an Apache.
I deeply regret that.
Such a thing
did come to pass, yes.
I knew Chalipun,
and I was speaking peaceably
with him
when another white man,
who is now dead,
shot him in a cowardly manner.
Pleading with me
will not keep you alive.
I do not plead.
Still, I am ashamed
to have played a part
in that noble brave's death.
Men should die proud
of their deeds,
not begging.
His death was not my doing.
And never in my life
have I begged for anything.
A coyote bays very loudly
until the bear is upon him.
My warriors and I shall see
how bravely you die, white man.
Chief Victorio has spoken.
Hey, keep your hands
off my wife!
Shaa!
If that brave has his way,
Mrs. Butler'll have
a new husband before too long.
Shut your mouth.
Why?
The lady might as well know
what's a-gonna happen to her.
Focus your thoughts
upon your own fate,
which isn't much brighter
than my own.
I been staring at death
for many years.
I am used to his gaze.
You say you are
the Apache leader
known as Chief Victorio, yes?
Is my name familiar to you,
fearless white man?
Yes.
Your name is very big
in these parts,
but I was not aware
that you preyed
upon women and injured men.
We are simply travelers,
crossing your land in peace.
We're not soldiers.
That wagon back there,
it's carrying medicine.
Must strong Apache warriors
really steal treatments
from the sick women
and children?
And what have your kind
taken from my people?
How do the lives of a few
white women and children
compare
to your vast desecration?
It's time for the crucible.
Butler, you swallow your agony
all the way down.
Apaches hate admissions of pain,
and there's no surer way
to get your throat cut.
Who buried Chalipun
in a white man's grave?
Then you are all guilty
of crimes against the Apache.
The injured man behind me,
he was unconscious
when it happened
and is innocent.
You are wrong.
That man fired bullets
at the Apache in the valley
and is not innocent.
If there is a man among you
who can endure the torments
without tears,
prove yourself strong and brave
as an Apache,
then I will let you all go
in peace from this place.
Even the woman
shall be released.
Build a fire.
Damnation.
Horse manure.
This is very unusual medicine.
That money's yours.
That's a gift from us
to the exalted Chief Victorio,
yeah, if'n you'll...
you'll let us go.
It'll buy you plenty
of rifles and whiskey.
Chief Victorio
has already explained
how you may earn your freedom.
This is Apache money now.
You didn't have too much
leverage there.
As long as I'm alive,
I'm gonna explore every option.
Now, is that money from the bank
that got robbed in San Carlos?
Well.
No use lying 'bout it now,
staked out here like we are.
Yeah, Merrick Beckford,
I am pleased and proud
to tell you that it was.
Well, I can understand
why you were against
riding south, then.
Damn right.
I heard stories about that job.
How neat, expert-like
it was done.
Now, were you men
also behind that job
in Tucson two years ago?
Well...
as a matter of fact--
Would you hush,
you dumb braggart?
Beckford's trying to find out
if we were working this
territory two years ago
when his brother was killed.
How'd you know
he died two years ago?
You keep away from me.
We must test this one first,
lest he escape
our crucible by dying.
Leave my husband--
Ma'am. I know you mean well,
but pleading for him is only
gonna make things worse.
I understand.
Butler, you ball up your guts
and ready your reserves, okay?
This one's as weak as a woman.
No!
Mercy!
Please, please, please.
Mercy, mercy, please.
Ah.
Mercy. Mercy.
An Apache child can endure
more than this one.
Christ, help me endure.
Cry out, and your crucible
will be over.
You'll... you'll let us go now?
The crucible of a man
who steals from his own kind
and desecrates a dead Apache
is not so quickly ended.
Mercy! Mercy!
Many Apache braves
have endured as much or more.
Return the rifle barrel
to the fire
for the final crucible.
Fetch me a burning log.
You seem to recognize
the handiwork of your tribesmen.
Why didn't you
name yourself earlier?
Oh, I didn't know my name
had any value with the Apache.
The name Merrick Beckford
is well known amongst my people,
and to this day,
still spoken of in our lodges.
Our Creator saw what happened
to you and your wife.
It was angry.
Trust Chief Victorio
when he tells you
that not one of those
Apache renegades
who committed those crimes
walks this earth any longer.
You'll leave us, then?
We will.
And the word shall be sent forth
that no Apache will harm you
on your journey.
What about me?
Release me.
I'll handle him and the other.
Very well, Merrick Beckford.
May your medicine save many.
I appreciate your forbearance.
Beckford,
what are your intentions?
Is Mr. Butler all right?
He needs more bandages.
-Hey, are you gonna--
-You shut your mouth.
I'll let the sun
murder both of you.
Far kinder treatment
than you showed my brother.
I'm sorry about what happened
to your wife.
Yeah, it was a long time ago.
Not to you.
No... not to me.
Um...
I-I understand
why they sent you alone
with all this medicine.
Yeah. They thought
I could make it.
Well, you would have
if you hadn't encountered us.
You...
you gonna let us roast out here
just 'cause we-- you think
we killed your tarnal brother?
I know you killed my brother.
'Cause Edmund guessed
that he died two years ago?
I knew for certain three men
had killed him,
and I felt you might be
the ones the first time
I smelt your godforsaken odor.
And then, when I saw Edmund
dismantling that spider
the other night,
I was certain.
Not many take pleasure
in pointless cruelty...
and my brother
got the same treatment.
But yeah,
Edmund knowing Abner died
two years ago
was the fact that pulled
the noose tight.
Man, all that
is just coincidences--
If you deny what you did,
200 yards
from where Abner's buried,
I swear to God,
I will unearth your son
and let the buzzards
rip him apart.
Do you intend to just leave us
staked out here?
Nope. Tie you up, good and firm,
and take you back
to San Carlos to get hanged.
Should get
Mr. Butler in the wagon.
Yeah.
It's about time
we quit this place.
Val? What hap--
Try not to talk just yet.
We're safe.
Hurry, man. Hurry, hurry.
Hurry, hurry.
Go, Ed, go.
I'll give you some water.
I'll go tie up McKee and Edmund.
Won't even have to squint
to aim true.
North it is.
You give my best
to your brother.
Come here.
Yeah! Yeah!
You can't overpower me.
My bare hands.
I swore I'd kill you
with my bare hands!
Black boils!
Thank you very much.
McKee.
Beckford.
Do you wanna live out
the rest of your days
as a blind man in a San Carlos
jail, waiting to get hanged...
or do you wanna go see
your son right now?
It's entirely up to you.
Send me to Billy.
I'm sorry, ma'am.
At least Jeff
regained himself
before he left us.
Yes, ma'am, he did.
That is an indisputable fact.
Ma'am.
You ready to go?
I am.
I have one thing to ask of you
before we go.
Yes, ma'am?
I'd prefer it very much
if you called me Valerie.
Well, that is
a difficult request,
but I think I can manage that.
Declare your intentions!
Well, sure, I could send out
a whole cavalry company
for this job.
It's an option.
You were about to ask me
that very question, weren't you?
That thought occurred
during your verbosity.
It's a good question.
Astute thinking on your part.
But here's my belief.
I believe that sending out
a full cavalry company
is the surest way to guarantee
that those supplies
will never reach San Carlos.
Beckford...
Merrick, if I may be
so familiar.
You and I
are old hands out here.
We know how things balance out.
There is not a company
at the fort
that can stand against
the Apache
in their own backyard.
Am I right?
If the Confederacy had
hired on some Apache troops,
I believe that war would
still be going on right now.
Yes, sir.
Most assuredly.
We don't understand the Apache,
and we don't want their company,
but we do respect them.
I'm not going to minimize
the terror those people
must be feeling
with this epidemic down South.
Sure, there are doctors
in San Carlos,
two, maybe three,
who know their hip
from their elbow.
But what those people want
and truly need right now
are drugs and medical supplies.
It's urgent.
Haven't slept too much
this past week,
trying to figure out
how to supply them.
Find a solution.
And then you had
the notion to ride out.
Correct.
Like a knight from heaven,
sent by God Himself.
I had a notion to ride out.
But then, suddenly,
the answer came to me.
Merrick Bedford
could take that wagon
down to San Carlos by himself.
You could do it.
Alone. Unaccompanied.
You'd cause less commotion
than some blundering company.
And you know how
to navigate the Apache.
The answer was so simple,
so divinely perfect,
that I almost laughed aloud.
The notion of riding alone
through Apache country
doesn't make me mirthful, Major.
Well, maybe not,
but it does
give a man confidence.
I've already ordered
the wagon loaded.
Those folks in San Carlos
desperately need those supplies.
And I need sleep
almost as badly.
I'll be on my way
inside of an hour.
Arm left. Forward.
Plagues and black boils!
Blast them tarnal savages
to Hell.
Thunderation, woman.
What in the name of God
are you transporting
in this wagon
that stinks thatta way?
Are the smells
of burning fineries
truly your biggest concern
at this time?
You got some sass in you.
I don't abide a woman
gettin' contrary.
Oh, Mule.
Allow the woman a moment
to gather herself.
We've all been through
an ordeal.
Well, since you asked me
so polite-like,
I'll allow it.
Ma'am,
may I offer you some assistance?
Have you any medical experience?
Not formally, no,
but I have sliced open a few men
in my lifetime.
A man out here chances
dying every day, ma'am.
It ain't good for a lady
like you to think about,
but that's the way it is.
But you don't have to worry
about that too much, ma'am.
Men without women
are real plentiful out here.
Ma'am, it might be better
if you just let Mr. Butler
bleed out his insides
right here.
What do you mean by that?
Your husband,
he weren't the bravest critter
I ever laid eyes on
when those Apaches attacked.
And that was back when we had
a wagon and horses.
Now, it might be better
if Mr. Butler weren't breathing
when those Apaches come back.
You didn't think they was
through with us, did you?
They'll be back.
And if they saw
inside that wagon,
glimpsed what a looker you are,
they'll be back quick.
With intentions.
You have no
compunctions whatsoever
about letting my husband die?
Ma'am, we gots to prepare
for our next engagement
with those Indians.
Pa, I see dust.
I see a wagon.
There's a red cross
painted upon the canvas.
It's a army wagon.
How many soldiers
are riding escort?
None.
Whoa, whoa.
How many on the wagon?
One man riding on the boot.
Looks like the time
I paid two nickels in church
about to pay off.
You mind your husband
while we converse
with this stranger.
But perhaps this wagon
will be able to--
Edmund.
I advise you to take care
of that pretty little husband
of yours in silence.
Looks like you all
had an encounter.
You folks making camp here?
Well, a man camps
where he has to.
Where's the rest of the army?
Three days, few hours
north of here at Fort Stalwart.
Though it might take you
a mite longer afoot.
Why are you riding alone
like this?
You dislike the company
of others?
Oh, I'm capable on my own.
Where you headed?
South.
San Carlos.
You folks come from that way?
Oh, yeah. We, uh...
we came from that direction.
Ambushed by Apache?
Yeah, and we'd sure appreciate
your assistance.
Them braves aren't far off,
and we hope to be off and away
before they return
for an encore.
Will you help us out?
We'd be beholden.
I've been sent on a mission
by the U.S. Army.
You better hold
right there, friend.
Something amiss?
A couple things
I'd like to say to you men.
Feel free to say
anything you like.
Well, first thing's about these
here animals the army gave me.
They'll pull far,
and they're steady,
but they ain't fast.
In fact, they couldn't outrun
a little old lady,
let alone compete
with Apache ponies.
The other thing is,
if three men were to draw on me,
all at once,
well, there wouldn't be
but two of you
left standing at most.
I'd kill the old one first,
then I'd see who else
I could drop.
I'm steady and experienced
in such...
situations.
Well, whatever gave you
such inhospitable thoughts
about us?
Well, I was just considering
what I might be tempted to do
if I was stranded
in Apache country
with a woman and a wounded man
and somebody happened
to come along
with a couple of fresh mules.
All right.
Ma'am?
Are these men your kin,
by any chance?
They are strangers to me.
You better keep your distance
if you want to keep this
whole thing friendly.
Edmund!
Come on, man.
I see you have a casualty.
Oh, yeah.
Now, he...
he's digesting some lead,
though he's better off
than our horses.
Hm.
Will you look
at my husband's injury?
You'll pardon me
while I assist these others.
Yes?
Of course, man.
Of course.
Go right ahead and help them.
Yeah, that's a nasty one.
Deep too.
Have you any experience
doctoring such injuries?
Enough to know his chances
might improve
if I cut that bullet out.
To hell with that.
We gotta get out
of this tarnal valley
before them tarnal savages
come back and take
our tarnal scalps.
If we all moved to a safer spot,
we'd be better off, ma'am.
Then let's quit all
this jawing and ride.
Well, moving
right now might kill this man.
Well, we all gonna
be dead 'fore too long.
We need to go.
That ain't your decision
to make.
Now, she can get
another husband.
Ain't one of us
can grow a new scalp.
Move an inch closer to that gun,
I'm gonna be cutting lead
out of you too.
Edmund.
Don't increase the number
of casualties
we're dealing with here.
Mrs. Butler.
Ma'am.
'Tain't reasonable to stay
out here in the open
and to wait to get killed.
Now, once we find some shelter,
we'll get that bullet
out your husband.
I swear that to you
as a Christian.
If he survives the travel.
We're gonna ride careful,
and make sure that he does, hm?
Water.
He wants water.
Got any water?
I'm out.
Watering hole up ahead
was a stop I planned to make.
Hey, I have a canteen
with some left.
Well, get it in.
Bring it in, boy.
Is it far
to this waterhole you know?
It ain't far.
It's called Patchee Wells.
It's the only water source
I know of in the region
that stays wet
during dry spells.
I'm sure glad you know
this country so good.
Will we be any safer
in your wagon
than we were in ours?
The important thing right now
is getting out
of the open, ma'am.
So if you're not
opposed to going...
we should be off.
Then let us hurry.
All right.
All right.
Let's get him into the wagon.
Raise him gently.
We don't want him
bleeding worse.
Edmund.
Go gather up our things.
I would like to ride
alongside my husband.
That's a good idea, ma'am.
Billy, ride up front.
Edmund, ride in back
with these saddlebags.
We sure appreciate
all this assistance
you're giving us.
I don't believe
I caught your name.
Beckford.
You heard of me?
No, sir, not that I recall.
Uh, there ain't room
for a third on that bench,
so I'll ride with my associate,
back of the wagon.
Give me a hand, eh?
All right, mister,
let's launch this wagon
like a cannonball.
Watering hole's that way.
Our route's north.
The water and this wagon
are going south.
Step up.
Blisters! Can't these
critters move any faster?
Like I said,
they ain't built for speed.
A slug
could beat this pace
in the middle of winter.
There's another name
goes in front of Beckford?
Merrick.
Merrick Beckford,
my name's Billy McKee.
That old goat in the rear,
that's my pa.
"Mule" Charley McKee.
We truly appreciate your help.
That other one,
Edmund.
He been riding with you
for a while?
Yeah.
Ever since I was a little kid.
But you don't have
to worry about him,
he'll mind Pa.
Oh, I'm not worried about him.
You been in Tucson lately?
A few weeks ago.
Man, I miss that place.
Is there anything new
up that way?
There was a bank robbery
a few weeks ago.
I don't mean like that.
I mean, is there
any saloons or parlors?
Any brothel girls, yeah?
There's a lady in this wagon.
You keep those keen eyes
looking for Apaches, boy.
Step up.
Easy, easy.
Whoa, whoa, whoa.
This place look familiar to you?
No, not at all.
Whew.
Handsome fella.
Explains how he got himself
this Mrs. Butler.
Has his condition worsened?
Not noticeably.
There's some antiseptic
in the wagon,
gauzes and bandages.
Why don't you go fetch those?
I'll retrieve them.
You and your son
should loose these mules,
water them, and stake them
in that grass patch over there.
Now, if we stake them there,
they'll have to climb uphill
to get out this place.
Not good for leavin' in a hurry.
Yeah, well, if Apaches visit us,
we won't have time
to hitch up that wagon.
We definitely can't put
those mules on that ridge.
Oh, okay.
Billy, tend these animals.
Edmund, build a fire.
Well, if you would like a fire,
I recommend
you build one yourself.
The McKees might take orders
from you,
but that doesn't mean I will.
I warned you, man.
Now, you build that fire
like the man says,
or I'll give you another
toweling like I did in Laredo.
Oh, that incident
was a long time ago, old-timer.
You don't walk quite as tall
-as you did in those days.
-Thunderation, man.
Don't push it.
I will build your fire
as requested, friend.
Are you going to sterilize
that blade before operating?
That's why we're risking
the fire right now.
How have you stayed alive
this long?
Being a little quicker
and a little smarter than most.
Lighting a fire out in the open
ain't evidence
of that intelligence.
The Indians know
we've come to this place.
Well, there's a chance
they don't.
Your mules left tracks.
Yeah.
They'll find those marks
for certain,
but only after
they revisit the valley.
So in the meantime,
there's no sense telling them,
or any other band
in this vicinity,
that we are here.
You know, not many white men
know Patchee Wells even exists.
You ever been here before?
No.
Go build that fire over there,
and keep it small.
Did he bite you?
No. Just trying to run away.
Should I get McKee
to brace your husband?
I'm not squeamish.
He's gonna buck like a bronco.
I can hold him fast. Please.
Hold him tight.
Hold him. Hold him.
Hold him tight.
Hold him tight.
It's out.
Please.
Proceed.
Should I bandage his injury
at this time?
Yeah. Yeah, go ahead.
Um...
Is there anything else
to do for him?
All we can do now is wait.
I'm sorry that a person
like you is...
stuck in a situation like this.
Well, it's fortunate
that my husband and I
happened upon a decent
human being out here.
I'll return the medical supplies
to the wagon.
Billy, put that fire out.
Okay.
I'll do it, mister.
A keepsake
from your misadventures.
Beckford.
Let's chew some words,
if you don't mind.
That was a mighty fine
little bit
of doctoring you did there.
I bet that weren't
the first bullet
you ever dug out a man.
It was not.
Yeah, I figured.
So, now that bullet's out,
I think it's time for us
to scuttle north
to Fort Stalwart.
I'm not going north.
Just where do you plan to go?
South. Mission at San Carlos.
There's a fever epidemic there,
and the people in that town
need the medicine in my wagon.
So if you boys want
to come with me,
well, you're more than welcome.
You speak with a lot
of confidence, man.
Hell of a lot.
Especially for a lone fella,
facing down three.
Wagon and those mules are mine,
and my itinerary is set.
You know, talking like--
What's the matter, boy?
Apaches, Pa.
I smell 'em.
Plagues and black boils.
Your boy
right about these things?
Ten times out of ten.
Stay right there.
Don't even breathe.
All right, mister.
You know how to handle Indians?
Let's go handle them.
He looks like a scout.
I'm gonna come
from out this boulder
so they can see me.
I know some braves
and can speak a few words.
While he's distracted,
wound him or disarm him,
but no matter what,
do not kill him.
You understand me?
Friend.
Ash!
Chalipun?
Merrick Beckford?
Stop!
Red blazes, kid!
You weren't supposed
to murder him.
Billy! Billy!
I killed him, Pa.
What you did,
you stupid reptile,
is just purchase for us
the merciless black wrath
- of the Apache.
- Blisters, man,
I ain't letting him report
our position to his tribe.
That'd be
a fool thing to do.
I knew this man.
Could have arranged
safe passage for us all.
The pony!
Grab it.
Hey, hey!
We gotta get
out of here.
You now just see
what you done?
The red hell you
just bought for us?
You're the one
that pulled him out in the open.
He had his hands
raised friendly.
We were talking. You saw that.
But it ain't buying us anything
to worry about that now.
When the Apaches find that pony,
they'll be upon us.
Oh, I'm sorry.
I didn't mean
to interrupt your sermon.
Well, surely you could see
we need to ride hot hell
out of here right now.
You just saw firsthand
how slow our mules are
compared to that one.
That's why we need to go. Now.
Get ourselves a big lead
before that pony
- gets back--
- No.
Moving right now
will kill Mr. Butler.
Put us in the thirsty wide open,
exposed to sun
and vengeful Apache.
There's some army spades
in the back of that wagon.
Go on and get them.
If we can bury this mistake,
we might have half a chance
of fooling those Indians.
Where the hell is Edmund?
I didn't see him.
Man should be helping us dig.
That man is acting more wayward
than I'm gonna brook.
All right. All right.
We gonna keep his rifle?
We're trying to hide this mess,
not acquire keepsakes
to show everyone what we did.
Okay. I just--
there just ain't been
many times in my life
I said, "Damn, I wish
I didn't have this gun."
Boy, I'll swat you
like I did your mestizo mother.
Go ahead.
You sass me again.
Put the damn rifle in there.
Them Apaches won't
much appreciate us
burying their brave
like a white man.
It's against their beliefs.
Yeah, you're right about that,
but I'm hoping
we're far and away
before they discover him.
Where the hell
did you disappear to?
You should have assisted us
with that dig.
Cleaning up after your boy
isn't my responsibility.
Well, shall we be off?
We need to wait until Mr. Butler
is well enough to travel.
No, we spent enough time
in Patchee Wells.
If you choose to remain,
you do so on your own.
Don't threaten me.
I welcome any rebuttal you care
to offer, friend.
All right, no use you two
killing each other
till we know how things
are gonna go with the Apache.
We will commandeer
that army vehicle
if you don't oblige us.
I've got no desire to stay
in this infernal place
one minute longer
than I have to.
But we need
to let Mr. Butler heal some,
or we will kill him.
Huh.
You breathe too loud, friend.
You telegraph it.
You give yourself away
even to a man
you'd shoot in the back.
Get worms, you little bastard.
I ain't no bastard.
A Mexican priest
said the words--
Shut the hell up!
All right.
Put away your gun, man.
Edmund's just trying to throw
a scare into you, is all.
He'd never shoot a man
in the back.
This whole situation's
tying knots in our guts, see?
It's got us all
a little bit anxious.
Edmund won't kill nobody,
unless he gets the order
from me,
and I ain't going to allow him
to flash shots at a man
who's helped us out.
You heard that?
Yeah.
If Edmund draws on me again,
there'll be repercussions.
Whoa, whoa, whoa.
Abner! It's me, your brother.
I came alone.
You can show yourself.
"Dear Abner,
I'm writing you this letter
because I've got good news
if you'll pocket
that stubborn
Virginia pride of yours
and admit the war
between the Confederacy
and the Union is over,
buried for years.
At present, the United States
has a list of crimes
charged against you longer
than two neckties,
starting with your escape
from that Yankee prison in Ohio
and including the robberies
you did all along the border.
With all
these offenses tallied,
you seem like a very
formidable enemy to them."
"I've used all my sway
trying to square things
so you can go back home
to Virginia a free man."
Whoa.
"That's finally been arranged.
There's a full pardon
awaiting you.
I'll meet you in two weeks
at Patchee Wells
and escort you to Tucson,
where you can take an oath
of loyalty to the United States
and finally be forgiven.
This is your chance
to finally go back home,
free and honest.
Your dear brother, Merrick."
Ain't it obvious, boy?
Beckford has that old
Southern honor in his blood.
I sure hope
he can fend off
them Indians as good as we did.
I need more proof.
Odious, detestable jackal!
Release me!
Don't do it, son.
Ain't we got troubles enough
right now?
I don't need
any guidance from you.
Look at where
your leadership got us!
Billy, take his gun.
You shouldn't handle me
that way, old man.
I'm still young enough.
How'd your man get so unraveled?
Well, he got into some of that
medicinal alcohol in the wagon.
Didn't increase
his intelligent much.
That drink didn't give him
any ideas he didn't have
from the first moment he saw me.
You're right about that, ma'am,
but the true wonder
is that we only had
to intervene once.
You keep him organized.
I'll try.
If I have to
discipline him myself,
it'll be severe.
Come on, bud. Come on.
Okay. Wake up.
Get him, boy.
Take him back there.
There we go. Come on.
Mr. Beckford.
Can you come over here
for a moment
and make an appraisal?
His temperature has risen,
and he's burning up.
Yeah, this is it.
This is the bad time.
Either that fever will burn
the poison out of him or...
I understand.
This will help with his fever.
I want to thank you
for all that you've done.
Yeah, well, I hope it's enough.
We're in your debt.
Well, we ain't out of this yet.
No matter what happens,
you deserve our gratitude.
You stopped to help us
while you were on your way
to somewhere else.
You're troubled by this delay.
There's a fever epidemic
at San Carlos.
Medicine I'm transporting
in this wagon was for them.
Well, I'm sorry that our follies
will impact you
and so many others.
Yeah, well, they should have
got these drugs a week ago,
so a couple days' delay
won't matter too much.
Well, for some of them,
it might matter very, very much.
Do you have family
in San Carlos?
A wife?
No.
I don't know anybody down there.
Are you married?
I was.
It's hard to imagine a woman
letting go of a man like you.
Yeah, well, she died
before she knew me well enough
to break things off, so...
You have my condolences.
No honest man
should have to endure
so many trials and indignities.
Ma'am.
Any signs?
None.
We could put
a lot of miles
between us
and this place tonight.
Push them animals hard,
might make Fort Stalwart
in two days rather than three.
I told you when we'd travel.
I also told you where.
I didn't mean
to startle you.
Announce yourself
when you draw near.
I shall.
Would you come with me to Jeff?
I believe his fever's subsided.
He's steadier than before.
I'll get him some water
to drink.
Blisters!
How many cups have you had?
Four?
That there's
his fifth cup of coffee.
For some unknown reason,
our friend wants to keep himself
from falling asleep all night.
The wind sounds
so haunting out here,
so empty and alone.
I don't see why anyone
would ever choose to live
in this land.
Well, there are reasons
to dwell in these parts.
How about this spot?
You ever hide out here before?
Nope.
Never been here before.
Why are you asking?
My brother was killed here.
You have my condolences,
Mr. Beckford.
Well, I'm mighty saddened
to hear a thing like that.
Are you?
I said I was.
How did your brother pass?
He was murdered in the dark
by bushwhacking cowards.
It was a brutal killing.
Without sense.
Lot of killings make no sense.
They shot him four times
and mutilated his body
in ways I would not describe
in front of any woman.
Well, sounds like
he got attacked by Indians.
Wasn't Indians.
Well, that's real tragic.
A man would have to be heartless
to deny that.
I appreciate your sympathies.
Well, you've got mine, man.
You do.
Let me tell you something.
Mule Charley McKee
never had it easy, neither.
And I took to living by the gun.
Now I admit that to you people.
But I never done it from choice.
It all was forced on me
back when my Billy
was just a lad.
I had 'steaded me a ranch,
lived on it with my boy
and his mestizo old mother,
but, uh,
she was killed, and then...
the land office took the place.
I know all about your "honest"
homesteading days, old-timer.
You were pretty generous
with that running iron of yours.
We all did that back then.
-Uh-huh.
-He's rounding up.
You can't stop
to count out a man's strays.
I reckon I lost just
as many beeves as I gained.
I doubt that.
Well, a man got to look out
for hisself
and his own, right?
Do business the way he sees fit.
A man's gotta be able to stand
behind what he does at night
when the noontime sun
is shining down on him.
That's well said, man.
Well said.
You know, I've admired you
plenty since meeting you.
Mucho, like my wife
used to say.
You're the sort of hombre
that makes a fine friend...
and a muy malo enemy. Hm?
Now the boys and me
understand you're determined
to drive south to San Carlos,
and we figure, well,
maybe there's some money
in it for you.
And never once in my entire life
did I meet a man
who wouldn't change his plans
if the price was right.
To show you
I'm a Christian trustworthy,
I wanna tell you right out.
Them saddlebags we got,
they're bursting full
of spending money.
Yours?
It is now.
And so that's what me
and the boys been talking over.
We're willing to offer you...
a thousand dollars
federal money
to point that team
north right now
and gallop to Fort Stalwart.
Oh, that's a mighty generous
offer you're making.
It's simple, friend.
Go north. Get rich.
Stay alive.
Shh. Hush, Edmund.
Now, all of us
got to stay reasonable
about this thing.
All right?
Now, the boys and me,
we just come up from the south,
and between here and to
San Carlos, there ain't nothing
but godforsaken
country and the hostiles.
We seen it ourselves,
ain't we, son?
Yep.
It's just like Pa says.
See, you'd never survive
going down that way,
and ain't nobody hold it
against you if you turn back.
If we head north,
chances are much better.
Might even meet a army patrol
'fore too long,
if we lathered them animals.
Yeah, racing those mules
wouldn't get you very far.
Though it would kill them...
and Mr. Butler.
I'm sorry, McKee.
But I have obligations
that a thousand dollars
could never wash away.
Mrs. Butler.
You're welcome to
remain here with us.
I fear the smells in this area
might affect my constitution.
Beckford.
McKee?
I want no trouble with you.
Well, that's fine.
But I'll tell it to you direct.
We'll take them animals
from you by force
if that's the only option
you give us.
Think it over.
Well, I'll be waiting
on this side of the pool
washing that wagon,
ready and armed
whenever you want, McKee.
After you, ma'am.
You boys sleep well.
Beckford.
Were you asleep?
I drifted for a moment.
I won't let that happen again.
I came to tell you
that Jeff is awake.
I want to thank you.
Jefferson Calhoun
Butler, third.
Merrick Beckford.
You would have done
the same for me.
Oh, I don't know that I could
have done what you did.
It is a certainty that you
saved my life, Mr. Beckford.
I am grateful
for your ministrations.
I suppose that I don't have
to point this out to you, but...
well, my wife and I weren't...
were not made
for frontier living.
You know, I was on the...
the general's staff...
in the war.
We dodged cannonballs
and gunshots, bayonets,
just as any other infantryman.
I never ran from the enemy,
not once.
After the war,
I came back home, and I figured,
you know, I'm just as good
as the next man
and better than many.
But I don't feel that way
out here.
Well, the frontier
is a challenging place.
Oh, well, you're kind
to say that.
Look, it hurts my pride
to say this aloud.
I'm afraid that
we still need your help.
Right now, I... I know
that you're gonna do
what's best for all of us,
aren't you?
Mr. Beckford?
I'll do what I have to do.
Hey.
All I ask is that you consider
the welfare of this...
fine young lady
just as well as your odds
against those Yankee brigands
when you make your decision.
No matter the situation,
a man's got to be able to live
with the choices he makes.
Sorry, amigo--
I've staked this claim.
Homestead somewhere else.
Can't fall asleep.
I ain't falling for that.
Edmund! Watch out!
Blisters.
Beckford!
Keep your skirts
behind that wagon, Miss Butler.
Billy boy!
Edmund, what's happening
over there?
You hold it right there, McKee.
Go on and fling that gun
a distance from you.
Billy? You answer me now.
I said fling that gun.
Boy?
I said hold it
right there, McKee.
I got to get my boy.
He's past helping.
It can't be.
It is.
Not Billy.
I'm looking at you, Beckford.
And I'm looking at you with ire
and a burning, boiling wrath.
And I swear...
I swear a fiery black oath
to God right now,
that if I get the chance,
I'm gonna end your life.
And if I get the chance,
I'll do it with my bare hands.
Hm?
You drag Edmund to the overhang.
Do what you want with him there,
if anything.
I cracked his skull pretty hard.
And drag your boy over there
so you can bury him.
You don't want the buzzards
catching his scent.
Is it time to leave?
If your husband feels
well enough to travel,
we should be off.
You're...
you're still heading south?
Yes, ma'am, I am.
Jeff insists that we can't go
in that direction.
He is adamant on the matter.
I'm going south.
If you all want to come with me,
that's entirely up to you.
You're gonna leave me
and my injured husband
in the Apache country?
Oh, I'd hate to do so.
That is, again, your choice.
You know what they're gonna do
to us if they find us here
with a murdered Apache.
You aren't as noble
as I earlier imagined
if you'd allow
such a thing to happen.
Look, I have a heap of miles
between here and San Carlos,
and I have enough to do
than battle my own passengers.
Well, then,
perhaps this conflict
should be settled beforehand.
My husband and I decided
to challenge your autocracy.
Put that thing down.
If you're to shoot me,
you better point that
at my heart, not my shoulder
like you're doing.
Because you ain't
takin' these mules
unless you kill me.
I'd rather tie you up
than hurt you,
so don't do
anything underhanded.
You're the one
being underhanded.
Coming at me with a sweet,
friendly tone
and pulling a gun on me.
Go on.
Shoot me.
Right here.
Then ride north
through Apache country.
We can try it.
Sure you can.
Did it once before, didn't you?
Only you had
one more man back then.
Edmund over there
has a cracked skull,
so he won't do much,
being dizzy--
Be quiet.
Of course, you folks will panic
and lather up
these mules full out,
which will kill them,
make your husband bleed--
Shut up!
Ah!
You hold it right there.
Slither back to your cave.
Now, if nobody else
intends to attack me,
I think I'll have
some breakfast.
Mrs. Butler!
You care to join me?
Look, I don't want you
to feel too badly now.
I know you were put up
to doing what you did.
Ma'am, I've got
more than I can eat.
Please. Come join me.
Thank you.
Billy's dead.
Just cut down in the night.
There's a patch of
soil on the incline over here,
where I buried my brother.
Probably a good place for you
to put Billy.
I left the shovels over there.
If you intend
to ride south with me,
I'd start digging.
You'll have us
in your wagon as passengers?
Unarmed.
Bound up firm with rope,
you two won't be
too much trouble.
I'll be leaving soon.
Edmund.
It's nearly time to go.
Mr. Beckford.
Can I speak with you
for a moment, please?
I am feeling...
...much better
now after that meal,
much more my... myself.
Thank you.
So you and Mrs. Butler
are gonna join me then, huh?
Oh, I'd much rather chance
bleeding to death
in a moving wagon
than remain in this
watering hole,
weaponless, without horses,
awaiting Apaches.
So you have no issue
against going south?
Is that right?
I have everything against
riding in that direction,
but the wagon is yours, and...
you've claimed my two-shot.
I suppose that does
change things, doesn't it?
Yeah, but I'm never gonna
survive a journey
in that direction
with so many hostiles.
And you were a soldier once,
weren't you?
I mean,
sometimes the smartest course
is to retreat.
I wasn't on the general's staff.
Look, I've got things to do
before we clear out,
and those two are nearly
done digging, so...
Hold on.
Wait, wait, wait.
I've got one final offer
to make.
Don't you waste
one more syllable
on the subject of going north.
I--I've seen the way
that you look at Valerie.
What are you talking about?
I've been sick,
my good host, not blind.
I haven't done anything.
Do you deny that you want her?
Look, I don't see
the sense of talking
about this kind of thing.
She's your wife.
I know my wife,
and I can tell without asking
that she sees in you the kind
of man she thought that I was
when she married me.
I have work to do.
I brought my wife out here
with a bouquet of hopes
and dreams and promises
that have all just
withered in the sun.
All right, as a husband,
I'm a failure.
Well, there ain't nothing
I can do about that.
Yes, there is.
I'm not following you.
If we survive this ordeal
and Valerie goes back east
with me,
it's only gonna be
out of a sense of loyalty
and obligation.
Okay, it is obvious
that her feelings of affection
have already found a new,
far more worthy subject.
You should really
sleep this off.
Listen to me, please.
Take us to Tucson, okay?
And I swear, hand to God,
I will step out
of this marriage.
Valerie will be free.
Does she know you're offering
to leave her like this?
No, she doesn't know.
But I have a feeling she won't
have any problem stepping aside
after all that's gone on.
That was...
that was not an easy thing
to say, so...
please, sir, I'll have
your decision at this time.
A yellow serpent
who'd offer what you just did
doesn't deserve a woman
like that...
but none of that
changes the fact
that this medicine
needs to reach San Carlos.
Mr. Beckford...
I just wanted to let you know
that we're ready.
Good. It's past time
we hit the trail.
Me and Ed
can take care of the rest.
All right?
You sure you're up to travel?
Yes.
Sorry to break up the conclave.
We'll go gather
the last of our possessions
from the overhang.
Be quick.
We will.
Please forgive me
for my behavior moments ago.
I, uh...
There ain't nothing to forgive.
I was startled
when I saw those scars.
You're wasting time.
Get your husband in the wagon.
There's something
I must tell you.
They intend to take
the wagon from you.
I know. And you should be glad,
McKee and Edmund
are going your way.
They discussed their plan
with us.
Well, I didn't think you folks
were exchanging recipes.
Jeff told them that
he's willing to endure the mules
being run full out
all the way to Fort Stalwart.
Well, I guess he'd agree
to anything at this point.
They want me to take that gun
from your holster
as we board the wagon.
Why're you telling me this?
I know what type of men
McKee and Edmund are,
and I can't abide
putting you at their mercy.
I'll pretend...
as if I still intend
to disarm you,
and when the time comes,
stop my efforts
with a convincing
display of force.
I'll make sure not to harm you.
I've seen how gentle you can be.
Thank you.
What is it?
Drums.
Go to your husband. Now.
Red blazes.
Where the hell is he?
These guns are unloaded,
but I will still shoot anyone
who tries for them.
You hear that sound, man?
That's Indian drums
pounding out there, now.
It's time for all of us
to throw in together.
They found and dug up
that brave we buried.
Thunderation.
Sounds like they're
consigning him to their gods.
-Come on.
-We got to go quick
while they're distracted
with their ritual.
Yeah, I doubt they'll
let us ride free,
but only one way
to find out. Are you ready?
I'm too scared to feel any pain
right now.
You two get him in the wagon.
Be gentle.
Over in there, bud.
Go on.
What do you think,
they're setting up a boutique?
Well, if we survive this day,
I plan on enjoying myself.
You get back there
with the Butlers
and your hard-earned money.
Edmund, wait.
- There's a matter to discuss.
- Be concise.
Now, we've thrown in with you,
and we'll abide your say-so,
and I swear that to you
as a Christian
directly into the radiant ears
of Christ Himself.
Now you give us back them guns,
so we have a chance
of surviving this engagement.
I admire you, McKee,
I really do.
Especially how you let
those absurd notions
exit your mouth.
You won't arm us?
Not now, maybe not ever.
But I tell you what.
If I see a host
of galloping braves
riding towards us
with dire intentions,
I will revisit the notion.
Now get in!
You rotten...
You reptiles stay
to the rear of the wagon.
If you approach me
or molest the Butlers,
you will learn firsthand
that Christ ain't ever
gonna call you up to Heaven.
What is there
to see at present?
Nothing.
But it's a meaningful nothing.
When're you gonna
let out them mules?
As soon--
Whoa, whoa, whoa!
What the hell are you doing?
That shot meant stop,
and they will not ask twice.
Man, you run them animals now!
If we've any chance
of surviving,
it'll be from talking.
Plagues and black boils,
you are a fool!
Three Apaches are approaching.
Stay calm and quiet.
Are you
friends with any of these?
I've never seen them before.
Thunderation, man.
I told you yesterday afternoon
we ought to run.
Yesterday!
Run where? North?
Right to 'em?
Yesterday,
we had a chance.
Small, maybe tiny,
but at least we had
some kinda chance.
What the hell
have we got now, huh?
Same chance we had yesterday,
except this time
we're meeting them here
instead of the open.
Out.
He is hurt.
Wounded. We have to help him.
Stay.
Out.
He's hurt.
-Can't you see that?
-Val. Val. Val.
Just don't ask
for anything, okay?
Stand up.
Okay.
-Your wounds have reopened.
-Shh.
You know that one?
No.
But you don't have
to be acquainted with him
to know his lineage.
You are the leader
of this group?
I speak for them. Yes.
What does that cross mean?
It means that that wagon
is carrying medicine.
I took on these passengers
when I met them in the valley.
And then you killed an Apache.
I deeply regret that.
Such a thing
did come to pass, yes.
I knew Chalipun,
and I was speaking peaceably
with him
when another white man,
who is now dead,
shot him in a cowardly manner.
Pleading with me
will not keep you alive.
I do not plead.
Still, I am ashamed
to have played a part
in that noble brave's death.
Men should die proud
of their deeds,
not begging.
His death was not my doing.
And never in my life
have I begged for anything.
A coyote bays very loudly
until the bear is upon him.
My warriors and I shall see
how bravely you die, white man.
Chief Victorio has spoken.
Hey, keep your hands
off my wife!
Shaa!
If that brave has his way,
Mrs. Butler'll have
a new husband before too long.
Shut your mouth.
Why?
The lady might as well know
what's a-gonna happen to her.
Focus your thoughts
upon your own fate,
which isn't much brighter
than my own.
I been staring at death
for many years.
I am used to his gaze.
You say you are
the Apache leader
known as Chief Victorio, yes?
Is my name familiar to you,
fearless white man?
Yes.
Your name is very big
in these parts,
but I was not aware
that you preyed
upon women and injured men.
We are simply travelers,
crossing your land in peace.
We're not soldiers.
That wagon back there,
it's carrying medicine.
Must strong Apache warriors
really steal treatments
from the sick women
and children?
And what have your kind
taken from my people?
How do the lives of a few
white women and children
compare
to your vast desecration?
It's time for the crucible.
Butler, you swallow your agony
all the way down.
Apaches hate admissions of pain,
and there's no surer way
to get your throat cut.
Who buried Chalipun
in a white man's grave?
Then you are all guilty
of crimes against the Apache.
The injured man behind me,
he was unconscious
when it happened
and is innocent.
You are wrong.
That man fired bullets
at the Apache in the valley
and is not innocent.
If there is a man among you
who can endure the torments
without tears,
prove yourself strong and brave
as an Apache,
then I will let you all go
in peace from this place.
Even the woman
shall be released.
Build a fire.
Damnation.
Horse manure.
This is very unusual medicine.
That money's yours.
That's a gift from us
to the exalted Chief Victorio,
yeah, if'n you'll...
you'll let us go.
It'll buy you plenty
of rifles and whiskey.
Chief Victorio
has already explained
how you may earn your freedom.
This is Apache money now.
You didn't have too much
leverage there.
As long as I'm alive,
I'm gonna explore every option.
Now, is that money from the bank
that got robbed in San Carlos?
Well.
No use lying 'bout it now,
staked out here like we are.
Yeah, Merrick Beckford,
I am pleased and proud
to tell you that it was.
Well, I can understand
why you were against
riding south, then.
Damn right.
I heard stories about that job.
How neat, expert-like
it was done.
Now, were you men
also behind that job
in Tucson two years ago?
Well...
as a matter of fact--
Would you hush,
you dumb braggart?
Beckford's trying to find out
if we were working this
territory two years ago
when his brother was killed.
How'd you know
he died two years ago?
You keep away from me.
We must test this one first,
lest he escape
our crucible by dying.
Leave my husband--
Ma'am. I know you mean well,
but pleading for him is only
gonna make things worse.
I understand.
Butler, you ball up your guts
and ready your reserves, okay?
This one's as weak as a woman.
No!
Mercy!
Please, please, please.
Mercy, mercy, please.
Ah.
Mercy. Mercy.
An Apache child can endure
more than this one.
Christ, help me endure.
Cry out, and your crucible
will be over.
You'll... you'll let us go now?
The crucible of a man
who steals from his own kind
and desecrates a dead Apache
is not so quickly ended.
Mercy! Mercy!
Many Apache braves
have endured as much or more.
Return the rifle barrel
to the fire
for the final crucible.
Fetch me a burning log.
You seem to recognize
the handiwork of your tribesmen.
Why didn't you
name yourself earlier?
Oh, I didn't know my name
had any value with the Apache.
The name Merrick Beckford
is well known amongst my people,
and to this day,
still spoken of in our lodges.
Our Creator saw what happened
to you and your wife.
It was angry.
Trust Chief Victorio
when he tells you
that not one of those
Apache renegades
who committed those crimes
walks this earth any longer.
You'll leave us, then?
We will.
And the word shall be sent forth
that no Apache will harm you
on your journey.
What about me?
Release me.
I'll handle him and the other.
Very well, Merrick Beckford.
May your medicine save many.
I appreciate your forbearance.
Beckford,
what are your intentions?
Is Mr. Butler all right?
He needs more bandages.
-Hey, are you gonna--
-You shut your mouth.
I'll let the sun
murder both of you.
Far kinder treatment
than you showed my brother.
I'm sorry about what happened
to your wife.
Yeah, it was a long time ago.
Not to you.
No... not to me.
Um...
I-I understand
why they sent you alone
with all this medicine.
Yeah. They thought
I could make it.
Well, you would have
if you hadn't encountered us.
You...
you gonna let us roast out here
just 'cause we-- you think
we killed your tarnal brother?
I know you killed my brother.
'Cause Edmund guessed
that he died two years ago?
I knew for certain three men
had killed him,
and I felt you might be
the ones the first time
I smelt your godforsaken odor.
And then, when I saw Edmund
dismantling that spider
the other night,
I was certain.
Not many take pleasure
in pointless cruelty...
and my brother
got the same treatment.
But yeah,
Edmund knowing Abner died
two years ago
was the fact that pulled
the noose tight.
Man, all that
is just coincidences--
If you deny what you did,
200 yards
from where Abner's buried,
I swear to God,
I will unearth your son
and let the buzzards
rip him apart.
Do you intend to just leave us
staked out here?
Nope. Tie you up, good and firm,
and take you back
to San Carlos to get hanged.
Should get
Mr. Butler in the wagon.
Yeah.
It's about time
we quit this place.
Val? What hap--
Try not to talk just yet.
We're safe.
Hurry, man. Hurry, hurry.
Hurry, hurry.
Go, Ed, go.
I'll give you some water.
I'll go tie up McKee and Edmund.
Won't even have to squint
to aim true.
North it is.
You give my best
to your brother.
Come here.
Yeah! Yeah!
You can't overpower me.
My bare hands.
I swore I'd kill you
with my bare hands!
Black boils!
Thank you very much.
McKee.
Beckford.
Do you wanna live out
the rest of your days
as a blind man in a San Carlos
jail, waiting to get hanged...
or do you wanna go see
your son right now?
It's entirely up to you.
Send me to Billy.
I'm sorry, ma'am.
At least Jeff
regained himself
before he left us.
Yes, ma'am, he did.
That is an indisputable fact.
Ma'am.
You ready to go?
I am.
I have one thing to ask of you
before we go.
Yes, ma'am?
I'd prefer it very much
if you called me Valerie.
Well, that is
a difficult request,
but I think I can manage that.